Is this a shed or hair loss? (Photo)

Question

I've been using dutasteride 0.5mg and 2.5mg of minoxidil for 2 months. Since then my hair as gotten worse my hairline receeded and temples as well. Is this a part of the shed or something else is at play?

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Thank you for reaching out and sharing your concerns. It’s not uncommon to experience initial shedding when starting treatments like dutasteride and minoxidil. This shedding can be a part of the hair growth cycle as the new hair pushes out the older, weaker hairs.

However, if you’ve noticed significant worsening, such as a receding hairline and temples, it’s essential to evaluate whether this is a normal response or if there are other factors at play.

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

It’s difficult to say with such limited information. certainly it’s possible for people starting treatment for male balding to find things get worse before they get better - absolutely. be sure to see your doctor for a really thorough evaluation and chat. Keep in mind too that if you have been under stress, or had COVID or have a thyroid problem or lost weight it’s possible for your hair to look this way too. so it would be a big mistake to simply tell you this is the medications that are doing this without knowing more. That said, it is usually a big mistake to stop these drugs too early as well. You have the too best treatments for male balding on board and if you stop these now simply because of some early hair changes, you’ll be quickly running out of good options. So be sure to see a wise doctor and don’t act out of emotion with your decision but rather factual and scientifically guided decision making.

Is this a shed or hair loss? (Photo)

Answers (2)

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